KAUST ·
British author and explorer Alastair Humphreys visited KAUST as part of the Enrichment in the Spring program. Humphreys, known for trekking across the Empty Quarter, shared his adventures with the KAUST community. The event aimed to bring a sense of adventure to the university. Why it matters: Such events enhance the cultural and intellectual environment at KAUST, fostering a broader perspective among students and faculty.
KAUST ·
Climber, author, and wingsuit pilot Steph Davis spoke to the KAUST community on January 15 as part of the 2017 Winter Enrichment Program. The event was captured in photos by Lilit Hovhannisyan. The program was held at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology. Why it matters: Such enrichment programs can broaden the horizons of the KAUST community.
KAUST ·
KAUST alumnus Eduardo Gorron (M.S. '12) was recruited to KAUST in 2010 as part of its second cohort of students. After graduating, he worked at SABIC on microalgae and brine from seawater, later teaching in Colombia. Currently, Gorron is completing a Ph.D. at the University of Queensland, focusing on synthetic biology to produce recombinant collagen for accelerating wound healing. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in fostering international scientific talent and contributing to advancements in biotechnology and healthcare.
KAUST ·
The KAUST Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) 2024 will take place from January 7-18 with the theme "Digital Adventure – ride to the future." The program will focus on the effects of AI on health, environment, and economies, as well as entrepreneurial and cultural opportunities. Xin Gao and Michael Berumen are the chairs of this year's event, which includes lectures, panel discussions, and workshops. Why it matters: The WEP program provides a venue for cross-disciplinary discussion on the impact of AI and related technologies, fostering innovation and collaboration within Saudi Arabia and beyond.
KAUST ·
KAUST's Discovery Week featured a gala and awards ceremony. Professor Gilles Lubineau opened the proceedings at the 2017 WEP Final Gala. A Javanese shadow puppet performance of the “Ramayana Epic” was also part of the event. Why it matters: Showcases KAUST's commitment to cultural exchange alongside its research activities.
KAUST ·
Todd Nims, a filmmaker born in Saudi Arabia, premiered his film "Joud" at KAUST's 2018 Winter Enrichment Program. The film, set in Saudi Arabia, explores the cycle of life in reverse and the meaning of "Joud" (generosity in the face of scarcity). Nims describes Saudi Arabia as a "magical place" due to its rich storytelling tradition. Why it matters: The article highlights KAUST's role in showcasing cultural works and supporting Saudi artists, though the AI relevance is limited.
KAUST ·
Ivan Gromicho, a scientific illustrator at KAUST, creates visual representations of complex research findings for journals like Cell, Nature, and Science. He collaborates with KAUST faculty to transform data into comprehensible illustrations. Outside of work, Gromicho pursues rock climbing, exploring natural rock formations across Saudi Arabia. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's support for interdisciplinary pursuits and employee well-being, fostering innovation at the intersection of science and art.
KAUST ·
Explorer Mike Horn gave a keynote lecture at KAUST's Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) about his pioneering expeditions. Horn recounted his solo journey around the Equator and his circumnavigation of the Arctic Circle. He also shared experiences from trekking to the North Pole during the Arctic winter. Why it matters: While not directly about AI, the talk highlights KAUST's broader mission to inspire innovation and exploration across diverse fields, which can indirectly foster a culture of creativity relevant to AI research.